CPST vs VYM
Calamos S&P 500 Structured Alt Protection ETF - September vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CPST | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.69% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $32M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +3.59% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.04% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Calamos Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 3, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CPST vs VYM Performance
Calamos S&P 500 Structured Alt Protection ETF - September (CPST) is a ETF from Calamos Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CPST returned +6.04% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, CPST is up 3.59% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 2.5% for CPST. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -3.8% for CPST and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CPST charges 0.69% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $4 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CPST currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CPST and VYM share 0 holdings out of 559 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CPST or VYM?
CPST has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CPST or VYM?
Over the past year CPST returned +6.04% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), CPST annualized +6.60% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CPST or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.5% for CPST. Worst drawdown: CPST -3.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CPST and VYM?
CPST and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CPST and VYM?
CPST and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CPST or VYM?
CPST yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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